The Bubble Bursts: Notable NFL Roster Cuts

Today, all NFL teams must find a way to reduce their roster to 53 men. It is no surprise that it is also one of the most painful and frustrating days in the life of an NFL player. Established veterans, journeymen, failed draft prospects and rookies alike all face the prospect of having to find employment with - and prove themselves to - new teams. Some will be retained on practice squads, some may be traded to other teams, but for many, today will mark the end of their careers.
This article will take a look at some of the most notable cuts around the league, as players on the roster bubble find out whether they'll be playing for their current teams this season.

Michael Sam

Despite his success at Missouri (including a 2013 season in which he was a unanimous All-American, SEC Defensive Player of the Year and a First Team All-SEC pick), there were always questions about whether Sam could succeed at the professional level. Sam was considered too small to play defensive end in the NFL, and was unable to make the transition to outside linebacker (he was trialled at the position at the 2014 Senior Bowl). Jeff Fisher is correct when he says Sam can play in the NFL - he showed during the preseason that he could rush the passer effectively. Unfortunately, undrafted rookie Ethan Westbrook played superbly and the numbers game forced the Rams to cut Sam. Although there is a perceived risk to Sam from a media standpoint, don't be surprised to see him find work soon.

Champ Bailey

After a quiet preseason that saw him battle with an ankle injury, the Saints cut Champ Bailey a matter of minutes prior to the roster cut deadline. The former Washington Redskins and Denver Broncos All-Pro cornerback was released in favour of undrafted rookie Brian Dixon. A team desperate for defensive backs may come calling, but one has to assume that this is the end of Bailey's prolific career.

Stephen Hill

To say that Stephen Hill has been a bit of a flop is an understatement. The Jets selected Hill with the 43rd pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, two places ahead of 2013 Pro Bowl receiver Alshon Jeffrey. Jeffrey has emerged as one of the best receivers in the game, while Hill has emerged as a major disappointment and finds himself without a team. Despite the presence of Eric Decker, Hill's release casts further uncertainty on the Jets' receiving corps this season.

Daniel Thomas

Yet another unemployed recent second round pick (alongside Hill, Mikel Leshoure, Jerel Worthy and Devon Still), Thomas arrived in Miami in 2011 with expectations that he was unable to live up to. The Dolphins traded up 17 spots to take the Kansas State back, and his 6' 1", 255 lbs frame suggested he would be a bruising presence in their backfield. This wasn't to be the case; Thomas started just three games in three seasons, and ends his time in Miami with 365 carries for 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns. Thomas also caught 42 passes for 291 yards and three touchdowns. A pair of undrafted rookies - Damien Williams and Orleans Darkwa - round out the Dolphins' running backs unit.